Proceed with caution: WEF leaders urge against hasty bans on biosolids land application

Utilities across the U.S. are facing growing uncertainty around biosolids management as PFAS concerns, disposal limitations, and evolving regulations reshape long-standing practices. While land application has historically been one of the sector’s primary biosolids management strategies, emerging restrictions are rapidly changing the conversation.

A recent article published in Water Environment Federation’s WE&T Operations & Engineering magazine explores these challenges and the importance of a measured, science-based approach to future policy decisions. The article, “Proceed With Caution,” was co-written by Carollo’s Rashi Gupta alongside leaders from the WEF Residuals and Biosolids Community.

Balancing PFAS Risks and Biosolids Benefits

The article explains that utilities have traditionally relied on three primary biosolids management pathways: land application, landfilling, and incineration. However, all three are becoming increasingly constrained.

At the same time, several states are pursuing restrictions on biosolids land application before federal PFAS risk assessments and long-term management strategies are finalized.

The authors caution that prematurely eliminating land application could create significant environmental and financial consequences. Beyond providing a disposal outlet, land-applied biosolids improve soil health, support crop productivity, and contribute to carbon sequestration.

“Closing off this biosolids management option prematurely does not allow for a fair assessment of the balance of benefits of land application with potential risks,” the authors write.

Preparing Utilities for Future Biosolids Regulations

The article encourages utilities to begin preparing now by strengthening PFAS sampling programs, updating industrial pretreatment efforts, evaluating alternative technologies, and improving public communication strategies.

It also emphasizes the importance of utility engagement with regulators and legislators as policies continue to evolve.

“Without utility-led communication, legislators will continue to make biosolids decisions in a vacuum,” the article explains.

Planning the Path Forward for Biosolids

As the water sector adapts to changing PFAS regulations, the authors argue that utilities will need balanced, long-term strategies that consider public health, environmental protection, operational feasibility, and affordability together.

To learn more about the evolving biosolids landscape and the role of PFAS in future management decisions, read the full article.